Istanbul in spring

Spring in Istanbul is lovely. This town in general is planned for the spring: at this time of year most of the palaces and mansions on the Bosphorus, built for such experts in luxury as magnates, emperors and sultans, are buried in soft verdure. The air is incredibly clean, crisp and truly marine. Generally the city life begins in April in addition to the tourist season which lasts all year round. Lots of festivals are held including the famous Istanbul Film Festival and fashion shows (Cartier show was the most recent)... In spring you can see the Nobel Prize winner for literature Orhan Pamuk, presenting his new book and signing autographs somewhere in the bookstore on Istiklal. You should go to Istanbul in spring because of tulips. There are lots of such flowers of different types, sizes and colors. No wonder tulip is the symbol of Istanbul. Even the Tulip Festival is held here! And of course the famous Jazz Festival, assembling half of Europe in Istanbul... But this is closer to the middle of summer in July.

Back to spring, let’s dwell on the most incredible vacation in Istanbul one can afford at this time. We talk of the Bosphorus of course. The Turks often speak of the Strait with a saying invented: "Feeling sad? Go to the Bosphorus"! The Bosphorus in spring is fascinating and incredibly beautiful. Especially in the evenings when the strait is full of lights on both sides and the water is gently lapping under the brightly lit bridges across the strait. During such days it is better to order a place in the restaurant on the bridge in advance. It’s a Rush Hour, what can I say... A walk along the Bosphorus in spring is as required as democratic in regard to the prices. One can pay 7-10 dollars and take a shuttle ferry-boat connecting the districts of Istanbul. Or you can add 15-20 dollars and make a cruise along the Bosphorus for two hours. You will sail through the strait, the ship will swim up to the mansions and palaces along the coast and at the same time you will be given tea to drink. You can pay $ 50, then it would no longer be a modest boat, but a yacht where you’ll enjoy the Bosphorus with a few others. You can make even a picnic on your yacht right on the water upon request. Just imagine: spring, light breeze and the Bosphorus. And you - in the middle of the strait, waiting for fried fish while drinking slowly aromatic apple tea. Are you impressed? That’s it!